Gaming motivations as moderators and mediators of the gender-internet gaming disorder link.

Research has shown that males are at higher risk for internet gaming disorder (IGD) than females (i.e. the gender-IGD link). However, few studies have examined the boundary conditions or processes that underlie the gender-IGD link. Consequently, the current study aimed to extend on the existing rese...

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Detalles Bibliográficos
Publicado en:Behaviour & Information Technology Vol. 45; no. 10; pp. 2163 - 2173
Autor principal: Chew, Peter K. H.
Formato: research tables/charts Journal Article
Publicado: Taylor & Francis Ltd Jun2026
Acceso en línea:Ver este registro en EBSCOhost
Descripción
Sumario:Research has shown that males are at higher risk for internet gaming disorder (IGD) than females (i.e. the gender-IGD link). However, few studies have examined the boundary conditions or processes that underlie the gender-IGD link. Consequently, the current study aimed to extend on the existing research by examining gaming motivations as moderators and mediators of the gender-IGD link. Participants were a representative sample of 1001 Singaporean young adults (50.15% females; 74.43% Chinese, 13.29% Malays, 9.29% Indians, and 3.00% Others). They completed instruments that assess IGD and gaming motivations (social, escape, competition, coping, skill development, fantasy, and recreation). The results showed that social, escape, competition, and skill development moderated the gender-IGD link. Furthermore, all seven gaming motivations partially mediated the gender-IGD link. Limitations include the use of a cross-sectional design and a specific conceptualisation of gaming motivations. Limitations notwithstanding, the results highlighted the importance of gaming motivations and have both theoretical and clinical implications that could advance the field of IGD.